PelicanHPC is a free and open-source operating system derived from the award-winning Debian GNU/Linux distribution and designed from the ground up to provides users with an unique solution for deploying a dedicated high performance computing cluster.

Available for download as a Live DVD ISO image

The operating system can be downloaded via Softpedia or directly from the project’s official website as a single, dual-arch Live ISO image that fits onto a CD disc or a USB thumb drive of 1GB or higher capacity.

It comes with the ability to try the operating system without installing it

From the boot menu, the user can start the live environment with default boot options or in safe graphics mode, using the failsafe option, perform a memory diagnostic test, as well as to access a help screen with detailed information about how to add extra kernel parameters.

Requires some advanced configuration

After booting the live system, you’ll arrive at a setup screen, in text-mode, from where you can configure various parameters. For example, it will ask you want it to copy user configuration files and examples to /home/user. Then, you must type in an initial password for the default “user” account, which will be used to log in at the end of the configuration process.

Cluster can be created with a minimum effort

Once logged in, you will be able to create your first cluster, simply by typing the “pelican_setup” command and pressing the Enter key. To start a graphical desktop environment, type the “startx” command (without quotes, of course).

Xfce is the default graphical environment

It appears that Xfce is the default graphical environment of PelicanHPC. It uses a traditional layout comprised of a single panel located on the bottom edge of the screen, from where the user can navigate the main menu and launch applications, as well as to interact with running programs and cycle between virtual workspaces.

PelicanHPC was reviewed by Marius Nestor, last updated on March 6th, 2015